Today, the Department of Energy (DOE) announced the release of a funding opportunity announcement (FOA) related to ethanol blends.  The FOA provides up to $5.5 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to increase the use of higher ethanol blends through expanding refueling infrastructure and funding outreach to promote public awareness.

$3.5 million is available to fund refueling infrastructure related to higher ethanol blends.  Potential projects include modifications, upgrades, or expansions of fuel pumps at retail gas stations.

$2 million is available to fund national campaign projects that increase public awareness of the benefits, safety, and use requirements of higher ethanol blends.

Applications for this FOA are due October 4, 2009.